Memorial Day - Gone but not forgotten

About a week or two ago I posted the news link about my co-worker that was involved in a motorcycle accident -- well today, his children made the decision to pull him off life support. Actually, the decision was made last week but decided that they would do it today. For the past few days I've been following his blog. Reading his blog reminded me of the time when my little brother Daniel was alive and all the emotions involved.

Watching a loved one die or prepare to die is hard. As much as you try and prepare yourself, when it does happen, you find yourself not prepared. At least for me that was the case. It was a difficult time in my life and for years I could not talk about my little brother without breaking down in tears.

I am grateful for the gospel and the plan of salvation. This morning (I guess I should say yesterday morning since it's already Monday) as we were driving up to Logan, as soon as I turned on the radio, the song that played was Michael McClean's "Together Forever". As soon as I heard the song I thought of John my co-worker. I thought of the painful decision his children had to make. However, there is comfort knowing that we will be together forever with our loved ones someday.

Shortly after we were married, Haloti's oldest sister Luisa passed away. The following year his dad passed away. Every Memorial Day, we made it a tradition to buy flowers and visit their graves. As the years have passed, our list has gotten longer. On Haloti's side, we have his parents, his sisters Luisa and Fifita, his brothers Fauniteni and Joe, his nephews Kitione and Inoke and niece Maopa. On my side, there are my grandparents and my little brother Daniel.

I apologize if my post doesn't make sense. I took a painkiller and well, let's just say it's kicked in.
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Like I mentioned, I wrote this last night -- lots of emotions going through my mind along with a painkiller that was making me feel funny. My boys (Soni & He'a) and I just got back from the cemetary. We made it out there early to avoid the crowds that will be there later in the day. The sun came out and it was beautiful to be there and to reflect on the lives of the ones that have passed on. My heart goes out to those currently facing the difficulties of losing a loved one. Also last night Toamotu Wolfgramm passed on. My heart goes out to the Rona and Wolfgramm families! May you feel comfort and peace during this difficult time!